Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits

Young Health Programme

The Young Health Programme (YHP) is a global disease prevention initiative, aiming to provide education for young people to feel empowered to make informed choices about their health and catalyse a global, youth-led advocacy movement.

The programme operates in over 40 countries and partners with more than 60 non-profit organisations, including UNICEF and Plan International. The YHP combines community programmes, research, advocacy, and the development of young leaders, with a focus on underserved communities.

Since its launch in 2010, the YHP has directly reached over 23 million young people, trained over 1 million, and engaged more than 23,000 AstraZeneca employees, who have volunteered their time with more than 140,000 hours.

The YHP aims to prevent the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and respiratory disease, by addressing five main risk factors: tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol, and air pollution. Additionally, the programme tackles climate-health impacts to build healthier communities, recognising, as projected in the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, that children born after 2010 will be the first generation to enter adulthood in a world where the average temperature will reach 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, and are expected to experience a +2°C rise within their lifetime.1

AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026

AstraZeneca is looking for passionate, driven young leaders to join their 2026 Young Health Programme (YHP) Impact Fellowship. The Fellowship supports young advocates to create actionable change to: 

• Advance health equity – with a focus on acting early to prevent non-communicable diseases among young people, or supporting young people living with rare diseases.
• Take action on climate and nature – advocating for the mitigation of the harmful effects of climate change on the health and well-being of young people.
• Build health systems resilience – contributing to stronger health systems that prioritise earlier intervention to meet today’s needs and mitigate tomorrow’s disease burden.

Benefits

The selected Fellows will gain access to networks, funding and development opportunities, enabling them to drive a global health movement led by and for young people:

A fully-funded scholarship to attend the 2026 One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa (3–6 November 2026) as well as access to the One Young World Ambassador Network and the Young Health Programme (YHP) Alumni group of other young changemakers working to improve youth health.

Structured learning and development offerings to enable them to scale their impact, including both self-directed and live learning. This includes access to the One Young World Academy, an award-winning mini-MBA programme, mentorship from AstraZeneca colleagues and professional training.

Each selected Fellow will receive a grant of either USD $10,000 or USD $50,000 (if selected as the Lead2030 winner** for Sustainable Development Goal 3, for which applicants will be automatically considered) from AstraZeneca, through their non-profit organisation. Fellows are expected to use the grant to implement a project focused on either (1) advancing health equity (2) taking action on climate and nature (3) building health systems resilience.

The Main Street Matters program offers Accessible Housing Grants to enhance living conditions for individuals with permanent physical disabilities. This initiative promotes community revitalization by funding essential renovations, ensuring individuals can remain in their homes rather than institutional care. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofits. The program emphasizes collaboration with local funding sources and prioritizes projects that address immediate community needs, helping to create inclusive and supportive environments for all residents.

The GA Arts: General Operating Support Grant, provided by the Georgia Council for the Arts, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations in Georgia. This grant facilitates the growth of community engagement through various art forms, including performing, visual, and media arts. Eligible organizations must have a primary arts mission and offer significant arts-based programming. By fostering creativity and cultural expression, this grant helps enhance the vibrancy of Georgia's communities.

The Gates Family Foundation offers strategic grants focusing on K-12 education, natural resources, and community development, accounting for 60% of its annual budget. These grants support innovative educational strategies, sustainable resource management, and community resilience. While unsolicited proposals are not accepted, potential applicants are encouraged to explore the Foundation's priorities and engage with program officers. This funding promotes long-term partnerships aimed at achieving impactful outcomes in Colorado's communities.

The WWT Foundation Grant aims to empower organizations aligned with the foundation's values, focusing on community service, employee engagement, and business impact. Key areas of support include career readiness, STEM education, human services, and health and wellness. Eligible organizations must be located in the U.S. and registered as 501(c)(3). Applications are accepted year-round, allowing for flexible engagement and support for impactful community initiatives.

Impact100 Nashville's Transformation and Innovation Grant supports nonprofits that drive social change in Middle Tennessee. With a focus on innovative programs addressing issues like homelessness and poverty, this grant offers $100,000 for transformative projects. Organizations must have a solid history, a sustainable plan, and the capacity to implement impactful solutions within 24 months. The initiative empowers women philanthropists to collectively invest in community improvement, fostering a vibrant network dedicated to social transformation.

The Lockhart Vaughan Foundation, established in 1990, provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in Baltimore, focusing on education, environment, and community development. New applicants must submit a Letter of Intent to outline their goals. The Foundation emphasizes childhood literacy, environmental improvements, and vibrant neighborhoods while prioritizing programs that foster high expectations and prevent summer learning loss. Eligible organizations should align with these strategic goals to secure funding.

The William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades, established by Bridge Builders Community Foundations, supports programs in Venango County that promote trades, applied technology, apprenticeships, and nursing careers. This initiative aims to foster community growth and enhance workforce development by empowering individuals through practical education and training opportunities. By focusing on these essential fields, the fund not only honors donor intent but also addresses the evolving needs of the local economy.

The Bisbee Foundation Berry Family Environmental Fund, an initiative of the Arizona Community Foundation, aims to support projects enhancing the natural environment in Bisbee. This grant encourages community involvement through initiatives like landscape enhancement, water harvesting, and conservation efforts. The fund, inspired by the Berry siblings' respect for nature, seeks to preserve Bisbee's unique environmental heritage while fostering community engagement in ecological projects.

The Environmental and Water Resource Institute (EWRI) Scholarships, offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers, aim to support civil and environmental engineering students. Annually, a total of $8,000 in scholarships is awarded to four top applicants, based on academic performance and commitment to water resources. This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also encourages student involvement in ASCE activities, fostering a strong community of future engineers dedicated to public health and safety.

Kansas Department of Transportation 

KDOT delivers transportation that keeps Kansans moving forward.

We maintain thousands of miles of roadways to keep people and goods moving smoothly across the state. Our dedicated team plans, builds, and maintains highways, bridges, and other infrastructure with a focus on safety and innovation.

By working closely with local communities and stakeholders, KDOT aims to enhance the quality of life for all Kansans, support economic growth, and improve travel experiences. 

Kansas Safe Route to School (SRTS) Grants

Grants and funding opportunities are available to support Safe Routes to School planning, programs, and infrastructure improvements. These include the Kansas SRTS Planning Grant, Kansas SRTS Programming Grant, and Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.

Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program

The Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program provides federal funding to promote and enable use of active transportation and for certain scenic and historic improvements, such as:

• Pedestrian/Bicycle/Non-motorized transportation infrastructure
• Abandoned railway corridors to trails conversion
• Safe Routes to School – construction and non-construction
• Historic transportation facility preservation and rehabilitation 
• Scenic and environmental improvements 

The Takoma Foundation offers grants to enhance the social, environmental, and cultural vitality of Takoma Park. These grants, capped at $5,000 for small nonprofits and $1,000 for larger organizations, support initiatives in community connection, youth empowerment, anti-racism, and assistance for vulnerable populations. Eligible organizations must align with the Foundation's mission and primarily serve the Takoma Park area, ensuring equitable opportunities for all community members.

N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' divisions have responsibilities in regulatory and service areas covering agronomy; animal health; weights and measures; gas and oil inspection; crop and livestock statistics; USDA commodity distribution; state farm operations; food, drug and cosmetic testing for purity; agricultural marketing and promotion; agricultural marketing grading; international agricultural crop and livestock marketing; operation of the North Carolina State Fair and North Carolina Mountain State Fair; operation of four state farmers markets; research station operations; seed and fertilizer inspection; nursery and plant pest eradication activities; regulation of the structural pest control industry; agricultural environmental issues; soil and water conservation; forest management and protection; state and federal agricultural legislation; and agricultural economic analysis.

N.C. Agriculture Innovations & Research Grant Program 

Executive Summary

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) requests applications for the fiscal year. Projects will be reviewed, selected, and modified as necessary. The Department has $1 million to support this grant program for this fiscal year. These funds are for projects that enhance the competitiveness of new and emerging crops, bioenergy, livestock, technology, forestry, and any other agricultural innovations and research. 

While not a requirement, research projects funded through the Program can be supported by one or more of the research stations or field laboratories strategically located across the state. North Carolina has a vast network of research farms with varying soil types and climatic conditions, plus an aquaculture facility, to support the production of a wide range of crops, livestock, and aquatic species.

Funding from this Program will NOT be granted for start-up businesses, collecting proprietary data, or indirect/overhead costs.

The Canadian Home Economics Association (CHEA) Fellowship supports women pursuing graduate studies in Human Ecology, including Family and Consumer Sciences, at Canadian universities. Eligible candidates must be Canadian citizens, Permanent Residents, or Protected Persons and enrolled in a graduate program. The fellowship emphasizes ethical research practices and requires recipients to remain enrolled throughout the award period. Special consideration is given to those focusing on Education, while multiple awards in a lifetime are limited to three.

The Mille Lacs Area Community Foundation Grant supports projects in the Mille Lacs Lake Watershed, focusing on environmental stewardship, economic vitality, sustainable farming, and community pride. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, school districts, and local government units within the watershed area. This grant aims to enhance water quality, promote green spaces, and foster community engagement through various initiatives.

The Charles H. Dater Foundation Grants support programs benefiting children in Greater Cincinnati. Established in 1985, the Foundation focuses on arts, education, healthcare, social services, and community needs. Grant applications require a pre-application summary for feedback. Funds are typically awarded within two weeks, following a thorough evaluation process. The Foundation encourages leveraging grants for additional funding and values effective use of volunteer resources, ensuring ongoing support for community enrichment.

Agency-specific Content for the Notice of Funding Opportunity Future Energy Jobs Act: Multi-Cultural Jobs Program

A. Program Description

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the "Department" or "DCEO") is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity ("NOFO" to support the Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program ("Program") authorized under 220 ILCS 5/16-108.12(a)(3). Through this NOFO, DCEO is making $1.5 million available for eligible applicants to provide skill development, supportive, and training services for qualified, traditionally underserved participants seeking employment in the clean energy industry. Please note that DCEO is posting this second FEJA Multi-Cultural Jobs Program NOFO to identify grantees under Categories C, E and F of the Program as outlined on page 6 of this NOFO

Program Description

The Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) were created to stimulate job growth in the clean energy economy with investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and clean energy workforce development. The Multi-Cultural Jobs Program provides an opportunity to take action toward providing innovative, employer-driven training approaches that pair education and occupational training with work-based learning and supportive services to individuals in need of self-sustaining employment. It is the goal and objective of the Multi-Cultural Jobs Training program to implement job training programs that:

• Assist in the development of a workforce with the requisite knowledge, skills, training, experience, and competence to work in the clean energy sector.
• Ensure participation of targeted populations and communities
• Identify partnership opportunities within training programs to maximize the societal

Avnet Cares Grants support nonprofit organizations in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico that focus on making a positive impact in their communities. Grants are available for initiatives in STEM, environmental sustainability, and assistance for communities in crisis. Eligible nonprofits must have been operational for at least three years. The program prioritizes organizations that serve areas where Avnet has significant operations, fostering community growth and development.

The United Company Foundation, established in 1986, provides grants to support charitable organizations in Bristol, VA, Bristol, TN, and Southwest Virginia. This private non-profit focuses on areas such as food, shelter, education, the arts, health, and youth services, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and innovative approaches. By prioritizing accountability and measurable outcomes, the Foundation aims to foster long-term improvements in the community it serves.

The Kirkpatrick Family Fund offers matching support grants to nonprofit organizations in central Oklahoma, focusing on endowment funds. Organizations can apply for grants to match their fundraising efforts, with varying amounts based on the type of endowment established. The fund emphasizes the importance of building endowments to ensure financial sustainability and supports initiatives across various areas including arts, education, and community enhancement. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) public charities that align with the fund's interests.

The Local Cultural Council Grant Program, funded by the Mass Cultural Council, supports arts, humanities, and science projects through local councils across Massachusetts. With 329 councils serving all 351 communities, this program emphasizes local decision-making to address community needs. Grants typically range from $250 to $750, with competitive applications due to limited funds. Councils can choose between reimbursement and direct grants, ensuring funds effectively support local initiatives.

Community Development Block Grant – Public Services

This grant opportunity is intended to connect low and moderate-income (LMI) Boston residents to a continuum of education, workforce development, and economic security programs to increase their capacity to obtain career-oriented employment leading to economic stability.

Grant Program Description:

Each year, the City of Boston receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Mayor’s Office of Housing. The funds are primarily used for affordable housing and economic development activities. However, up to 15% of the funds can be used for “public services” related to economic development. As the City’s workforce development agency, the Office of Workforce Development (OWD) manages this portion of the funding on behalf of the Mayor’s Office of Housing. 

The public services component of the CDBG funds provides services for low-income individuals and families with the goal of moving them out of poverty towards economic security. In anticipation of this RFGA, OWD released a set of policy principles. For the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027, OWD will continue to prioritize programs and services that fit within this range of long-term economic stability and growth, including but not limited to: Child Care, Health care, Job Training, Education Programs, Public safety services, Fair Housing Activities, Services for senior citizens, Services for homeless persons, Drug abuse counseling & treatment. 

As a reminder, the policy principles highlight the need to promote economic stability and mobility. These core beliefs shape strong programs:

• Investment in programs that place individuals on a continuum of quality education, training, workforce development, and economic security. This continuum is defined as high school diplomas/HiSET attainment, matriculation into post-secondary education or industry-recognized training programs, placement into jobs with demonstrated career paths, and/or access to income maximization programs that stabilize individuals and families with barriers. 
• A high degree of coordination of wrap-around support services, which address a wide range of individual and family needs. These can include, but are not limited to, financial literacy, ESOL/Adult Basic Education, income and/or benefits maximization, mental health, childcare, transportation, and individual case management. 
• The use of partnerships and collaborations is strongly encouraged to ensure that there are no gaps in a continuum of programs and supportive services to address a wide range of needs.
• The use of work-based training that provides maximum opportunities for participants to gain employment skills that meet employer needs.

Total Amount Available for Grant Program: Approximately $2,100,000.

Grant awards are subject to the availability of appropriated funds. Any oral or written representations, commitments, or assurances made by the Department or any other City representatives are not binding. Recipients should verify funding before beginning performance.

Award Amount per Grant per Organization: OWD anticipates grants ranging in size from $50,000 to $95,000.

The QC River Connections Grant, offered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, supports projects addressing environmental challenges faced by the Mississippi River in the Quad Cities. It promotes inclusive community engagement and nature-based solutions to enhance relationships between communities and the river. Eligible projects include restoration, education, and access initiatives. The grant aims to uplift underrepresented communities impacted by environmental issues, ensuring equitable participation in environmental stewardship.

The Fehr Graham Scholarship provides financial support for students pursuing careers in engineering, landscape architecture, land surveying, geology, hydrogeology, assessment and remediation, and environmental health and safety. Applicants must reside within fifty miles of a Fehr Graham office and intend to enroll in their first year of post-secondary education. This scholarship is renewable for up to three years, contingent upon maintaining a 2.8 GPA. It aims to enhance educational opportunities in the communities served by Fehr Graham.

The Fund for Community Advancement Grant Program, established by Franklin Savings Bank in 1997, aims to enhance community life by supporting diverse projects. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on areas such as affordable housing, healthcare, and social services, particularly for low to moderate income families. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities or government subdivisions. The program encourages impactful initiatives within Franklin and surrounding communities.

The Central Pennsylvania Community Foundation offers unrestricted funds to support various projects aimed at enhancing the community's welfare. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities that serve Blair County and meet specific criteria, such as promoting education, arts, or health services. This grant process encourages impactful proposals, ensuring that resources are allocated to initiatives that genuinely benefit the region. Applications are accepted annually, with a focus on sustainable community development.

The SU-CASA Grant is a 3-month program placing local artists in Staten Island senior centers to engage older adults through creative workshops. Each residency concludes with a public event showcasing the participants' work. Artists receive a stipend of $6,000 and a $2,000 budget for materials. Funded by the NYC Council, this initiative fosters collaboration among various city departments and supports artists passionate about teaching and working with seniors.